The Frenchman joined the Potters on a season-long loan deal last summer as he continued his return from a serious knee injury, but while he has impressed at times, in general it has been a tough time for him and the club as they languish in the relegation zone – one point from safety.

The 6ft 3in centre-back faced a tough task against City striker Gabriel Jesus on Monday, but while he showed his strength at times there was also one occasion when he was knocked off of the ball far too easily by former teammate Kevin De Bruyne.

Chelsea supporters were quick to have their say on the 23-year-old’s latest display via social media, and while one said “Zouma is better than Christensen”, another said “quicker we sell Zouma, the better”.